The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State Chapter has entered into a partnership with the Mass Communication Department of the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, ahead of its capacity building for members, scheduled to hold May 31st, 2023.
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The Chairman, Kwara SWAN, Mallam Ayodeji Ismail disclosed this after extensive deliberation with its consultant, Shogo Shodunke, and the Department of Mass Communication, during the official visit of the Association’s executive to the HOD”s on Thursday.
Mallam Ayodeji explained that capacity building is one of the focal points of the current leadership adding that it will go a long way in reshaping sports journalism in the state.
Ayodeji said there are vast areas of specialties in sports that can be tapped as journalists and not only reportage.
He said, “The capacity building is long overdue because it is time for some of our members to focus on sports branding, marketing, and Public Relations.
“We will not only focus on the reporting angle of sports but also on how we can create an ecosystem for sports to thrive in Kwara State. Kwara SWAN is happy senior lecturers of this great university will be our resource person at the capacity building”.
Responding, the Head of Department (HOD), Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, Dr Kehinde Kadiri applauded Kwara SWAN led by Mallam Ayodeji Ismail for the initiative of retraining its members.
Dr Kadiri said the Department of Mass Communication is ever ready to assist SWAN in the area of resources as well as ensure the training meets world standards.
She said, “SWAN is a recognized association all over the world and this visit to the department has sent the right sign. My doors are opened for the association and I want to assure you that I will personally grace the program”.
Meanwhile, the consultant for the capacity building, Mr Shogo Shodunke said the essence of retraining sports journalists cannot be overemphasised.
Shodunke said the resource persons for the program will focus on sports branding, sports marketing as well as hidden potential in the sports industry.
The renowned sports marketer said three other resources persons within and outside the country will grace the capacity building.
The senior lecturers of the department of Mass Communication as well as other executives of Kwara SWAN were also present.
